EP2689741B1 - Coupling device for connecting a supply hose for dental instruments with a supply and control unit - Google Patents

Coupling device for connecting a supply hose for dental instruments with a supply and control unit Download PDF

Info

Publication number
EP2689741B1
EP2689741B1 EP13176856.6A EP13176856A EP2689741B1 EP 2689741 B1 EP2689741 B1 EP 2689741B1 EP 13176856 A EP13176856 A EP 13176856A EP 2689741 B1 EP2689741 B1 EP 2689741B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
coupling
coupling body
section
sleeve
valve piston
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Active
Application number
EP13176856.6A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP2689741A2 (en
EP2689741A3 (en
Inventor
Alfred Schmidt
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Medtronic Medizinisch Elektronische Geraete GmbH
Original Assignee
Medtronic Medizinisch Elektronische Geraete GmbH
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Medtronic Medizinisch Elektronische Geraete GmbH filed Critical Medtronic Medizinisch Elektronische Geraete GmbH
Publication of EP2689741A2 publication Critical patent/EP2689741A2/en
Publication of EP2689741A3 publication Critical patent/EP2689741A3/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP2689741B1 publication Critical patent/EP2689741B1/en
Active legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

Links

Images

Classifications

    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16L—PIPES; JOINTS OR FITTINGS FOR PIPES; SUPPORTS FOR PIPES, CABLES OR PROTECTIVE TUBING; MEANS FOR THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16L25/00—Constructive types of pipe joints not provided for in groups F16L13/00 - F16L23/00 ; Details of pipe joints not otherwise provided for, e.g. electrically conducting or insulating means
    • F16L25/12—Joints for pipes being spaced apart axially
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61C—DENTISTRY; APPARATUS OR METHODS FOR ORAL OR DENTAL HYGIENE
    • A61C1/00—Dental machines for boring or cutting ; General features of dental machines or apparatus, e.g. hand-piece design
    • A61C1/0061—Air and water supply systems; Valves specially adapted therefor
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61C—DENTISTRY; APPARATUS OR METHODS FOR ORAL OR DENTAL HYGIENE
    • A61C1/00—Dental machines for boring or cutting ; General features of dental machines or apparatus, e.g. hand-piece design
    • A61C1/08—Machine parts specially adapted for dentistry
    • A61C1/18—Flexible shafts; Clutches or the like; Bearings or lubricating arrangements; Drives or transmissions
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T137/00—Fluid handling
    • Y10T137/8593—Systems
    • Y10T137/87153—Plural noncommunicating flow paths
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T137/00—Fluid handling
    • Y10T137/8593—Systems
    • Y10T137/877—With flow control means for branched passages
    • Y10T137/87708—With common valve operator
    • Y10T137/87764—Having fluid actuator

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a coupling device for connecting a supply hose for dental instruments with a supply and control unit according to the preamble of claim 1.
  • Advantageous embodiments of the invention will become apparent from the dependent claims.
  • a dental instrument usually consists of a handpiece part and a treatment tool received therein, for example in the form of a drill or the like.
  • a dental instrument is understood to be a tartar remover, preferably realized in ultrasound technology, or a rinsing instrument.
  • Said dental instruments have in their respective handpiece part electrically or pneumatically operated motor units or ultrasonic units, which are supplied by means of the supply hose from the supply and control unit with the fluids required for operation, electrical energy and / or electrical control signals.
  • Coupling devices can be provided both at the control end associated with the supply and control unit and at the instrument-side end of the supply hose.
  • a coupling device for connecting a plurality of supply lines to a dental handpiece.
  • the coupling device has in this case a plurality of inlets for connection to a respective supply line and an outlet for connection to a fluid line opening into the dental handpiece.
  • a plurality of fluid passages are provided for connecting the inlets to the outlet, wherein at least one of the fluid passages extends in the axial direction and at least one further of the fluid passages extends in the transverse direction.
  • the fluid channels are over at least one port in communicating fluid communication, at least one of the fluid passages being provided with a valve to prevent backflow of fluid to the inlet.
  • the WO 01/54611 A2 a coupling device comprising a valve unit for connecting a supply hose to a dental handpiece.
  • the valve unit has a plurality of axial ducts and is accommodated in the coupling device in a coupling sleeve, which is screwed on one side via a thread on an endpiece of the dental handpiece and is connectable to the supply hose on the opposite side.
  • a coupling sleeve which is screwed on one side via a thread on an endpiece of the dental handpiece and is connectable to the supply hose on the opposite side.
  • At the extension of the handpiece connecting piece for the guided in the handpiece ducts are formed, which engage in the coupling state in the manner of a connector in the ducts of the valve unit.
  • the ducts formed in the valve unit in turn terminate in connecting pieces, which in turn can be connected in the manner of a plug connection with fluid channels in the supply hose.
  • the valve unit at least one transverse channel is provided in addition to the axial ducts, which is equipped with a movable piston and forms a fluid connection between the ducts. By moving the piston, the flow through the transverse channel and thus the fluid transport from one duct to another duct is controlled.
  • the object of the invention is therefore to provide a coupling device for connecting a dental supply hose with a supply and control unit, which allows a controlled supply of at least one fluid, electrical energy and control signals.
  • the object is achieved on the basis of the features of the preamble of claim 1 by its characterizing features.
  • the coupling device is designed in the form of a switchable valve coupling.
  • the first coupling body forms a guided in the coupling sleeve valve piston body which is axially displaceable by applying compressed air.
  • the second coupling body is preferably received stationary in the coupling sleeve.
  • Particularly advantageous can be converted by the inventive realization of the coupling device as a switchable valve coupling by supplying pressure or switching air from a non-switched to an open or switched state and this without high tax technical effort.
  • first fluid channels are provided in the first coupling body and second fluid channels are provided in the second coupling body, which each extend along the longitudinal axes of the coupling bodies in the same axis to one another.
  • first and second fluid channels in each case sectionally rod-shaped valve piston (17) are accommodated with a first and second valve piston section.
  • the first coupling body spaced from the second coupling body in the coupling sleeve, wherein the first coupling body is held by being subjected to a bias in this position.
  • the control-side wall of the coupling sleeve is in particular a bore for supplying the compressed air or control air in a through the coupling sleeve and the first Clutch body enclosed annular valve space provided which extends along the longitudinal axis of the control-side end side of the coupling sleeve to the annular valve space.
  • the rod-shaped valve piston has an inner bore extending along the piston longitudinal axis, starting from a transverse to the piston longitudinal axis inlet bore with two opposite inlet openings and a frontal outlet opening.
  • a first valve piston section having the two lateral inlet openings is at least partially accommodated in a fluid channel of the first coupling body and a second valve piston section having the end outlet opening in the coaxially arranged fluid channel of the second coupling body.
  • the inlet openings of the first valve piston portion are released or sealed fluid-tight.
  • the first fluid passages provided in the first coupling body each have a first passage section and a second passage section adjoining thereto, the inner diameter of the first passage section being larger than the inner diameter of the second passage section.
  • the inlet openings of the first valve piston section are each in the region of the second channel section and are thus closed.
  • the inlet openings of the first valve piston section are in the region of the first channel section and are thus released.
  • the rod-shaped valve piston is received with its second Ventilkolbenabexcellentlage- or fixed position in the respective second fluid channel of the second coupling body.
  • a contact socket element for the production of the electrical connectors of the first and second coupling body parallel to the first and second fluid channels extending, also coaxially arranged first and second holes, each in a first bore a contact pin element and in an opposite achsreteen second Hole a contact socket element are arranged.
  • the second coupling body has a first and a second coupling body section with different outer diameters.
  • the outer diameter of the first coupling body portion is greater than that of the second coupling body portion, wherein the first coupling body portion is guided in the coupling sleeve.
  • a hose-side adapter coupling element adjoins the second coupling body on the hose side, which is preferably part of the supply hose.
  • the coupling sleeve comprises a peripheral edge portion and a subsequent cross-section reduced sleeve portion, which preferably has on the outer surface of a screw thread on which a nut member is screwed.
  • a fastening sleeve which can likewise be screwed onto the external thread of the coupling sleeve, adjoins the nut element along the longitudinal axis in the direction of the hose-side connection region.
  • connection adapter element arranged on the control side may also be provided, via which at least the supply of the fluids into the first fluid channels of the first coupling body forming a valve piston takes place.
  • the connection adapter element has guide channels extending perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis, which channels are each connected to feed channels running parallel to the longitudinal axis, which are arranged in the same position as the first fluid channels of the first coupling body.
  • dosing means are advantageously provided, via which the supply quantity of the respective supplied fluid can be set.
  • At least three first fluid channels in the first coupling body and at least three second fluid channels in the second coupling body for the passage of water, drive air and blowing air are integrated by the coupling device.
  • a dental device 1 which has at least one supply and control unit 2.
  • the supply and control unit 2 is designed for the controlled provision of at least one fluid, electrical energy and / or control signals.
  • a dental device 1 may for example comprise a mobile carriage 3, on which the supply and control unit 2 is arranged.
  • the dental device 1 may also be part of a dental treatment unit be, for example, which is pivotally and / or height-adjustable arranged on a treatment chair unit (not shown in the figures).
  • a dental instrument 5 can be connected to the supply and control unit 2 via a coupling device 4 according to the invention, specifically via a supply hose 6.
  • a coupling device 4 Starting from the coupling device 4, by means of the supply hose 6, a line connection for the transmission of preferably several fluids, electrical energy and / or or control signals to the dental instrument 5 made.
  • a dental device 1 has a plurality of dental instruments 5, which are each connected via a supply hose 6 and a coupling device 4 to the supply and control unit 2.
  • FIG. 1 By way of example, only a dental instrument 5 connected to the supply and control unit 2 is shown to explain the basic structure of a coupling device 4 according to the invention.
  • a dental instrument 5 is understood as meaning a dental treatment instrument, for example a handpiece unit with a treatment tool received interchangeably therein, a tartar stone remover preferably realized in ultrasound technology, a spray gun or a suction instrument.
  • a dental treatment instrument for example a handpiece unit with a treatment tool received interchangeably therein, a tartar stone remover preferably realized in ultrasound technology, a spray gun or a suction instrument.
  • electrical energy and / or control signals are required.
  • the fluids water, blown air and drive air, an electrical supply voltage and / or electrical or pneumatic control signals from the supply and control unit 2 are provided.
  • the supply hose 6 comprises a plurality of hoses and electrical connection cables via which the fluids, the electrical energy and the control signals provided by the coupling device 4 are transmitted to the dental instrument 6.
  • FIG. 2 shows an example of a perspective view of a coupling device 4 and FIG. 3 a pending exploded view.
  • the coupling device 4 has a control-side connection region 4 'and a hose-side connection region 4 ", wherein, after assembly of the coupling device 4, the control-side connection region 4', for example within the Housing the supply and control unit 2 and the hose-side connection area 4 "outside the housing of the supply and control unit 2 is located.
  • the coupling device 4 comprises at least one coupling sleeve 7 in which at least partially a first coupling body 8 and partially a second coupling body 9 are received along the longitudinal axis LA of the coupling sleeve 7 and the coupling device 4, wherein the first coupling body 8 a plurality of first fluid channels 10 and first electrical Plug connections 11 and the second coupling body 9 have a plurality of second fluid channels 12 and second electrical connections 13.
  • the coupling device 4 forms a switchable valve coupling, by means of which the fluid channels 10, 12 and the electrical connectors 11, 13 are preferably simultaneously switched through.
  • the coupling device 4 is in this case switchable by application of compressed air, i. from a first operating state, in which there is no conductive connection between the fluid channels 10, 12 and the electrical connectors 11, 13 between the first and second coupling body 8, 9, in a second operating state in which corresponding connections are switched through, switchable.
  • the first coupling body 8 is axially, and taken along the longitudinal axis LA of the coupling device 4 and the coupling sleeve 7, slidably received in the coupling sleeve 7.
  • the first coupling body 8 is axially guided by the coupling sleeve 7 and is provided in the control-side connection region 4 'of the coupling device 4.
  • the second coupling body 9 joins along the longitudinal axis LA to the first coupling body 8 in the direction of the hose-side connection region 4 "and is in the mounted state positionally or fixedly received in the coupling sleeve 7.
  • the first coupling body 8 is spaced from the second coupling body 9 is arranged in the coupling sleeve 7. In the through-connected state, the opposite end faces of the first and second coupling body 9 abut each other.
  • the first coupling body 8 forms an axially displaceable valve piston body, which is movable by application of compressed air from a first piston position to a second piston position and vice versa.
  • the first coupling body 8 is substantially cylindrical in shape and has a first coupling body portion 8.1 and a second coupling body portion 8.2.
  • the first coupling body section 8.1 has an outer circumferential groove 8.3 in the edge section adjoining the second coupling body section 8.2.
  • the first and second coupling body portion 8.1, 8.2 have different outer diameter and thus form a stepped cylinder surface, in such a way that the second coupling body 8.2 a radially outwardly from the longitudinal axis LA projecting annular edge portion with an oriented in the direction of the first coupling body portion 8.1 annular lateral Stop surface 8.4 forms.
  • the coupling sleeve 7 has a stepped inner surface course along the longitudinal axis LA. This is formed by a first and second, along the longitudinal axis LA adjoining coupling sleeve portion 7.1, 7.2, wherein the first coupling sleeve portion 7.1 has a smaller inner diameter than the second coupling sleeve portion 7.2.
  • the inner diameter of the first coupling sleeve portion 7.1 is adapted to the outer diameter of the first coupling body portion 8.1 and the inner diameter of the first coupling sleeve portion 7.2 to the outer diameter of the second coupling body portion 8.2.
  • annular stop surface 7.3 at which the second coupling body 8.2 of the first coupling body 8 and the annular lateral stop surface 8.4 is supported in the first piston position.
  • the annular valve space 14 is thus formed by the step-shaped inner surface portion of the coupling sleeve 7 and the stepped, the groove 8.3 enclosing outer surface portion of the first coupling body 8.
  • Both the first and the second coupling body section 8.1, 8.2 each have a circumferential guide groove 8.11, 8.21 for receiving a circumferential sealing element, preferably an O-ring. This results in a fluid-tight connection between the outer surface of the first coupling body 8 and the inner surface of the coupling sleeve 7.
  • first fluid channels 10 of the first coupling body 8 is connected in each case to a part of the second fluid channels 12 of the second coupling body 9, in each case via a rod-shaped valve piston 17.
  • the rod-shaped valve piston 17 has an inner bore, extending along the piston longitudinal axis, starting from a transverse to the piston longitudinal axis inlet bore 18 with two opposite inlet openings and a frontal outlet opening.
  • the first valve piston section 17.1 having the two lateral inlet openings is here received in a fluid channel 10 of the first coupling body 8 and the second valve piston section 17.2 has the end outlet opening in the fluid channel 12 of the second coupling body arranged coaxially.
  • the inlet openings of the first valve piston portion 17.1 are released or sealed fluid-tight and thus the provision of the respective fluid via the associated fluid channels 10, 12 controlled.
  • the fluid channels 10 provided in the first coupling body 8 each have a first channel section 10.1 and a second channel section 10.2 immediately adjacent thereto, the inner diameter of the first channel section 10.1 being greater than the inner diameter of the second channel section 10.2, so that a bevelled one gradual course of the channel inner surface results.
  • the inlet openings of the first valve piston section 17.1 are each in the second channel section 10.2 and are sealed by means of two, the inlet openings included, received in circumferential guide grooves seal elements, preferably O-rings relative to the channel inner surface of the second channel section 10.2.
  • the inlet openings of the first valve piston section 17.1 come to lie in the region of the first channel section 10.1 and are released due to the larger inner diameter, so that a fluid supplied via the first fluid channel 10 of the first coupling body via the inlet openings into the inner bore 18 to the outlet opening of The second valve piston section 17.2 is guided and finally reaches the hose-side connection region 4 "via the further second fluid channel 12 of the second coupling body 9.
  • connection tubes or a connection adapter element 19 the control-side openings of the first fluid channels 10 of the first coupling body 8 are provided with connection nipple elements 20.
  • the valve piston 17 is preferably received with its second valve piston portion 17.2 positionally or positionally fixed in the respective second fluid channel 12 of the second coupling body 9.
  • a spring element (not shown in the figures) is provided between a control nipple element 20 received in a first fluid channel 10 and the first valve piston section 17.1 of the rod-shaped valve piston 17, by means of which an axially acting preload is applied via the positionally or fixedly fixed position second clutch body 9 recorded valve piston 17 between the first and second coupling body 8, 9 is constructed.
  • the first clutch body 8 designed as a valve piston body is held in the first piston position without being exposed to control air, i. the second coupling body section 8.2 of the first coupling body 8 rests against the stop surface 7.3 of the coupling sleeve 7 at the edge.
  • the first coupling body 8 is axially displaced against the bias in the second piston position, against the first coupling body 8 facing the end of the second clutch body 9 pressed.
  • first fluid channels 10 are provided in the first coupling body 8 and three second fluid channels 12 are provided in the second coupling body 9, via which water, drive air and blowing air are passed through the coupling device 4.
  • a further fluid channel in the first and second coupling body 8, 9th provided, which has no valve piston 17, but which are connected to each other via a dacasnippelelement. This continuous, non-switchable further fluid channel is provided for the return of air from the dental device 5 via the supply hose 6.
  • first and second coupling body 8, 9 further parallel to the first and second fluid channels 10, 12 extending, also coaxially arranged first and second bores 22, 23.
  • first and second bores 22, 23 in each case in the first bore 22, a contact pin element 24 and in the opposite axis-same second bore 23, a contact socket element 25 for the technical realization of the connector 11, 13 are provided.
  • the first bores 22 have a first control-side bore section 22.1 and an adjoining second bore section 22.2, wherein the diameter of the first bore 22 in the second bore section 22.2 is smaller than in the first bore section 22.1.
  • the contact pin element 24 is held in the second bore section 22.2 and protrudes with the one free end into the first bore section 22.1 and projects with the opposite further free end of the front side of the first coupling body in the direction of the longitudinal axis LA to the outside, which the plug portion of the plug connection 11, 13 forms.
  • the opposite second bore 23 also extends along the longitudinal axis LA and has the same diameter throughout, which preferably corresponds to the diameter of the first bore section 22.1 of the first bore 22 and is designed to receive the contact sleeve element 25.
  • the contact socket element 25 has a pin-like end with which it projects from the end face of the second coupling body 9 on the hose side in the direction of the longitudinal axis LA and thus forms a contact plug for connecting a contact socket.
  • a socket with an electrical conductor connected thereto for the purpose of establishing an electrically conductive connection with the contact pin element 24 in the first bore portion 22.1 are introduced control side, wherein the electrical conductor via the first holes 22 to the respective contact pin element 24 becomes.
  • a hose-side adapter coupling element 26 connects in the coupling device 4 on the hose side to the second coupling body 9, which is preferably part of the supply hose 6.
  • This can be plugged onto the hose-side end of the second clutch body 9, preferably in such a way that it is at least partially supported on the freewheeling side by the clutch sleeve 7.
  • the second coupling body 9 in the in FIG. 3 . 5 and 7 illustrated embodiment for example, a first and second coupling body portion 9.1, 9.2, which have different outer diameter.
  • the outer diameter of the first coupling body portion 9.1 is greater than that of the second coupling body portion 9.2, wherein the first Kupplungsungs stresses analysesabiteses 9.1 is guided in the coupling sleeve 7 and the second coupling body portion 9.2 is dimensioned in terms of its outer diameter such that a clamping receiving the adapter coupling element 26 between the outer surface of the second Coupling body portion 9.2 and the inner surface of the free end of the coupling sleeve 7 takes place.
  • the first and second coupling body 8.9 interconnecting coupling sleeve 7 has at the control end an axially outwardly projecting, peripheral edge portion 7 ', which forms a lateral, annular contact surface against which the housing of the supply and control unit 2.
  • the peripheral edge portion 7 ' is adjoined by a sleeve portion 7 "which is reduced in cross-section and preferably has a screw thread on the outside surface or the like flat mounting surface of the supply and control unit 2.
  • the attachment is in this case by screwing the nut member 27 with the coupling sleeve 7 so that a clamping fit between the edge portion 7 'of the coupling sleeve 7 and the edge portion 27' of the nut member 27 is formed.
  • a fastening sleeve 34 On the nut member 27 is followed along the longitudinal axis LA in the direction of the hose-side connection area 4 "a fastening sleeve 34, which also on the external thread of the coupling sleeve 7 can be screwed.
  • the mounting sleeve 34 also receives the adapter coupling element 26 and by screwing it with the coupling sleeve 7, the adapter coupling element 26 is pressed onto the frontal free end of the coupling sleeve 7 and a clamping connection between the second coupling body 9, adapter coupling element 26 and hose side reduced sleeve portion 7 "of the coupling sleeve. 7 produced.
  • the coupling device 4 has a connection adapter element 19 via which at least the supply of the fluids into the first fluid channels 10 of the first coupling body 8 forming a valve piston takes place.
  • a connection adapter element 19 via which at least the supply of the fluids into the first fluid channels 10 of the first coupling body 8 forming a valve piston takes place.
  • connection adapter element 19 has three feedthrough channels 28 extending perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis LA, at whose opposite openings in each case connection nipples 30, 30 'are at least partially received.
  • the feedthrough channels 28, which run perpendicular to the longitudinal axis LA, are each connected to feed channels 29 extending parallel to the longitudinal axis LA, which are arranged in the same position and in the same position as the first fluid channels 10 for connection to the connecting nipple elements 20 of the first coupling body 8.
  • the fluids water, drive and blown air are fed to the feed channels 29, wherein in this case preferably in the region of the crossing points of the feedthrough and feed channels 28, 29 each metering 31 may be provided, via which the supply of each feedable fluids is adjustable.
  • connection adapter element 19 also has an outlet nipple 32 which can be connected via a further supply channel (not shown in the figures) to the further fluid channel provided in the first coupling body 8.
  • connection adapter element 19 is preferably fixedly connected to the control-side end side of the first coupling body 8, preferably by means of releasable connection means such as screws 33.

Description

Die Erfindung betrifft eine Kupplungsvorrichtung zur Verbindung eines Versorgungsschlauches für zahnmedizinische Instrumente mit einer Versorgungs- und Steuereinheit gemäß dem Oberbegriff des Patentanspruches 1 Vorteilhafte Ausführungsformen der Erfindung gehen aus den abhängigen Patentansprüchen hervor.The invention relates to a coupling device for connecting a supply hose for dental instruments with a supply and control unit according to the preamble of claim 1. Advantageous embodiments of the invention will become apparent from the dependent claims.

Zum Anschluss von zahnärztlichen Instrumenten, insbesondere elektrisch und/oder pneumatisch betriebenen zahnärztlichen Instrumenten sind Kupplungsvorrichtungen zur Verbindung des jeweiligen zahnärztlichen Instruments über einen Versorgungsschlauch mit einer Versorgungs- und Steuereinheit bekannt. Ein zahnärztliches Instrument besteht üblicherweise aus einem Handstückteil und einem darin aufgenommenen Behandlungswerkzeug, beispielsweise in Form eines Bohrers oder dergleichen. Auch wird unter einem zahnärztlichen Instrument ein vorzugsweise in Ultraschalltechnologie realisierter Zahnsteinentferner oder ein Spülinstrument verstanden. Genannte zahnärztlichen Instrumente weisen in Ihrem jeweiligen Handstückteil elektrisch oder pneumatisch betriebene Motoreinheiten oder Ultraschalleinheiten auf, welche mittels des Versorgungsschlauches von der Versorgungs- und Steuereinheit mit den zum Betrieb erforderlichen Fluiden, elektrischer Energie und/oder elektrischen Steuersignalen versorgt werden.For connecting dental instruments, in particular electrically and / or pneumatically operated dental instruments, coupling devices for connecting the respective dental instrument via a supply tube to a supply and control unit are known. A dental instrument usually consists of a handpiece part and a treatment tool received therein, for example in the form of a drill or the like. Also, a dental instrument is understood to be a tartar remover, preferably realized in ultrasound technology, or a rinsing instrument. Said dental instruments have in their respective handpiece part electrically or pneumatically operated motor units or ultrasonic units, which are supplied by means of the supply hose from the supply and control unit with the fluids required for operation, electrical energy and / or electrical control signals.

Kupplungsvorrichtungen können sowohl an dem der Versorgungs- und Steuereinheit zugeordneten steuerseitigen Ende als auch dem instrumentenseitigen Ende des Versorgungsschlauches vorgesehen sein.Coupling devices can be provided both at the control end associated with the supply and control unit and at the instrument-side end of the supply hose.

Beispielsweise beschreibt die EP 1 486 180 A1 , auf welche Offenbarung die zweiteilige Form des Anspruchs 1 basiert, eine Kupplungsvorrichtung zum Verbinden mehrerer Versorgungsleitungen mit einem zahnmedizinischen Handstück. Die Kupplungsvorrichtung weist dabei mehrere Einlässe zur Verbindung mit je einer Versorgungsleitung und einen Auslass zur Verbindung mit einer in das zahnmedizinische Handstück mündenden Flüssigkeitsleitung auf. In der Kupplungsvorrichtung sind mehrere Flüssigkeitskanäle zur Verbindung der Einlässe mit dem Auslass vorgesehen, wobei sich wenigstens einer der Flüssigkeitskanäle in axialer Richtung und wenigstens ein weiterer der Flüssigkeitskanäle in transversaler Richtung erstreckt. Die Flüssigkeitskanäle stehen über zumindest eine Öffnung in kommunizierender fluider Verbindung, wobei mindestens einer der Flüssigkeitskanäle mit einem Ventil ausgestattet ist, über welches der Rückfluss von Flüssigkeit zum Einlass verhindert wird.For example, this describes EP 1 486 180 A1 on which disclosure the two-part form of claim 1 is based, a coupling device for connecting a plurality of supply lines to a dental handpiece. The coupling device has in this case a plurality of inlets for connection to a respective supply line and an outlet for connection to a fluid line opening into the dental handpiece. In the coupling device, a plurality of fluid passages are provided for connecting the inlets to the outlet, wherein at least one of the fluid passages extends in the axial direction and at least one further of the fluid passages extends in the transverse direction. The fluid channels are over at least one port in communicating fluid communication, at least one of the fluid passages being provided with a valve to prevent backflow of fluid to the inlet.

Ferner offenbart die WO 01/54611 A2 eine Kupplungsvorrichtung aufweisend eine Ventileinheit zum Verbinden eines Versorgungsschlauches mit einem zahnmedizinischen Handstück. Die Ventileinheit weist mehrere axiale Leitungskanäle auf und ist in der Kupplungsvorrichtung in einer Kupplungshülse aufgenommen, welche an einer Seite über ein Gewinde auf ein Ansatzstück des zahnmedizinischen Handstückes aufschraubbar ist und an der gegenüberliegenden Seite mit dem Versorgungsschlauch verbindbar ist. Am Ansatzstück des Handstückes sind Anschlussstutzen für die im Handstück geführten Leitungskanäle ausgebildet, welche im Kupplungszustand in Art einer Steckverbindung in die Leitungskanäle der Ventileinheit eingreifen. An dem dem Versorgungsschlauch zugewandten Ende der Ventileinheit enden die in der Ventileinheit ausgebildeten Leitungskanäle wiederum in Anschlussstutzen, die wiederum in Art einer Steckverbindung mit Fluidkanälen im Versorgungsschlauch verbindbar sind. In der Ventileinheit ist neben den axialen Leitungskanälen zumindest ein Transversalkanal vorgesehen, der mit einem beweglichen Kolben ausgestattet ist und der eine fluide Verbindung zwischen den Leitungskanälen ausbildet. Durch Bewegung des Kolbens wird die Durchströmung des Transversalkanals und somit der Fluidtransport von einem Leitungskanal zu einem anderen Leitungskanal gesteuert.Further, the WO 01/54611 A2 a coupling device comprising a valve unit for connecting a supply hose to a dental handpiece. The valve unit has a plurality of axial ducts and is accommodated in the coupling device in a coupling sleeve, which is screwed on one side via a thread on an endpiece of the dental handpiece and is connectable to the supply hose on the opposite side. At the extension of the handpiece connecting piece for the guided in the handpiece ducts are formed, which engage in the coupling state in the manner of a connector in the ducts of the valve unit. At the end of the valve unit facing the supply hose, the ducts formed in the valve unit in turn terminate in connecting pieces, which in turn can be connected in the manner of a plug connection with fluid channels in the supply hose. In the valve unit at least one transverse channel is provided in addition to the axial ducts, which is equipped with a movable piston and forms a fluid connection between the ducts. By moving the piston, the flow through the transverse channel and thus the fluid transport from one duct to another duct is controlled.

Grundsätzlich ist es wünschenswert, die beispielsweise zum Antrieb eines zahnmedizinischen Instrumentes erforderliche Druckluft genau dann bereitzustellen, wenn diese für den Betrieb des Gerätes erforderlich ist. Auch ist bei bekannten pneumatisch betriebenen Versorgungs- und Steuereinheiten, über welche mehrere, vorzugsweise unterschiedliche Funktionen aufweisende zahnmedizinische Geräte betreibbar sind eine aufwendige pneumatische Steuerung und zugehörige Verkabelung erforderlich, welche gegebenenfalls durch elektronische Steuerkomponenten ergänzt wird. Von besonderer Bedeutung ist hierbei ein ordnungsgemäßer Betrieb der Versorgungs- und Steuereinheit sowie der angeschlossenen zahnmedizinischen Geräte. Insbesondere ist es wünschenswert, dass lediglich das aktuell in Benutzung befindliche zahnmedizinische Gerät betriebsbereit ist und die verbleibenden, in der Versorgungs- und Steuereinheit vorzugsweise mittels entsprechender Halterungen aufgenommenen zahnmedizinischen Geräten abgeschaltet sind.In principle, it is desirable to provide the compressed air required for example for driving a dental instrument precisely when it is necessary for the operation of the device. Also, in known pneumatically operated supply and control units over which several, preferably different functions having dental equipment operable a complex pneumatic control and associated wiring is required, which is optionally supplemented by electronic control components. Of particular importance here is proper operation of the supply and control unit and the connected dental equipment. In particular, it is desirable that only the currently in use dental device is operational and the remaining, in the supply and control unit preferably by means of corresponding holders recorded dental devices are turned off.

Aufgabe der Erfindung ist es daher, eine Kupplungsvorrichtung zur Verbindung eines zahnmedizinischen Versorgungsschlauches mit einer Versorgungs- und Steuereinheit bereitzustellen, welche eine gesteuerte Zuführung von zumindest einem Fluid, elektrischer Energie und Steuersignalen ermöglicht. Die Aufgabe wird ausgehend von den Merkmalen des Oberbegriffes des Patentanspruches 1 durch dessen kennzeichnende Merkmale gelöst.The object of the invention is therefore to provide a coupling device for connecting a dental supply hose with a supply and control unit, which allows a controlled supply of at least one fluid, electrical energy and control signals. The object is achieved on the basis of the features of the preamble of claim 1 by its characterizing features.

Der wesentliche Aspekt des erfindungsgemäßen ist darin zu sehen, dass die Kupplungsvorrichtung in Form einer schaltbaren Ventil-Kupplung ausgebildet ist. Hierzu bildet der erste Kupplungskörper einen in der Kupplungsmuffe geführten Ventilkolbenkörper, der durch Beaufschlagung mit Druckluft axial verschiebbar ist. Der zweite Kupplungskörper ist vorzugsweise ortsfest in der Kupplungsmuffe aufgenommen. Besonders vorteilhaft kann durch die erfindungsgemäße Realisierung der Kupplungsvorrichtung als schaltbare Ventil-Kupplung durch Zuführung von Druck- bzw. Schaltluft von einem nicht durchgeschalteten in einen geöffneten bzw. geschalteten Zustand überführt werden und dies ohne hohen steuertechnischen Aufwand.The essential aspect of the invention is to be seen in that the coupling device is designed in the form of a switchable valve coupling. For this purpose, the first coupling body forms a guided in the coupling sleeve valve piston body which is axially displaceable by applying compressed air. The second coupling body is preferably received stationary in the coupling sleeve. Particularly advantageous can be converted by the inventive realization of the coupling device as a switchable valve coupling by supplying pressure or switching air from a non-switched to an open or switched state and this without high tax technical effort.

In einer vorteilhaften Ausführungsvariante sind im ersten Kupplungskörper erste Fluidkanäle und im zweiten Kupplungskörper zweite Fluidkanäle vorgesehen, die sich jeweils entlang der Längsachsen der Kupplungskörper achsgleich zueinander erstrecken. In den ersten und zweiten Fluidkanälen sind jeweils abschnittweise stabförmige Ventilkolben (17) mit einem ersten und zweiten Ventilkolbenabschnitt aufgenommen.In an advantageous embodiment variant, first fluid channels are provided in the first coupling body and second fluid channels are provided in the second coupling body, which each extend along the longitudinal axes of the coupling bodies in the same axis to one another. In the first and second fluid channels in each case sectionally rod-shaped valve piston (17) are accommodated with a first and second valve piston section.

Weiterhin vorteilhaft ist im nicht durchgeschalteter Betriebszustand der Kupplungsvorrichtung der erste Kupplungskörper beabstandet zum zweiten Kupplungskörper in der Kupplungsmuffe angeordnet, wobei der erste Kupplungskörper durch Beaufschlagung mit einer Vorspannung in dieser Position gehalten wird. In der steuerseitigen Wandung der Kupplungsmuffe ist insbesondere eine Bohrung zur Zuführung der Druckluft bzw. Steuerluft in einen durch die Kupplungsmuffe und den ersten Kupplungskörper eingeschlossenen ringförmigen Ventilraumes vorgesehen, die sich entlang der Längsachse von der steuerseitigen Stirnseite der Kupplungsmuffe zum ringförmigen Ventilraum erstreckt.Further advantageous is arranged in the non-switched operating state of the coupling device, the first coupling body spaced from the second coupling body in the coupling sleeve, wherein the first coupling body is held by being subjected to a bias in this position. In the control-side wall of the coupling sleeve is in particular a bore for supplying the compressed air or control air in a through the coupling sleeve and the first Clutch body enclosed annular valve space provided which extends along the longitudinal axis of the control-side end side of the coupling sleeve to the annular valve space.

Gemäß einer vorteilhaften Weiterbildung der Erfindung verfügt der stabförmige Ventilkolben über eine Innenbohrung, die sich entlang der Kolbenlängsachse erstreckt, und zwar ausgehend von einer quer zur Kolbenlängsachse verlaufende Zulaufbohrung mit zwei gegenüberliegenden Zulauföffnungen und einer stirnseitigen Auslauföffnung. Ein die beiden seitlichen Zulauföffnungen aufweisende erster Ventilkolbenabschnitt ist in einem Fluidkanal des ersten Kupplungskörpers und ein die stirnseitige Auslauföffnung aufweisender zweiter Ventilkolbenabschnitt im achsgleich angeordneten Fluidkanal des zweiten Kupplungskörpers jeweils zumindest teilweise aufgenommen. Abhängig von der Kolbenposition des als Ventilkolbenkörper ausgebildeten ersten Kupplungskörpers sind die Zulauföffnungen des ersten Ventilkolbenabschnittes freigegeben oder fluiddicht verschlossen.According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the rod-shaped valve piston has an inner bore extending along the piston longitudinal axis, starting from a transverse to the piston longitudinal axis inlet bore with two opposite inlet openings and a frontal outlet opening. A first valve piston section having the two lateral inlet openings is at least partially accommodated in a fluid channel of the first coupling body and a second valve piston section having the end outlet opening in the coaxially arranged fluid channel of the second coupling body. Depending on the piston position of the valve body formed as a first coupling body, the inlet openings of the first valve piston portion are released or sealed fluid-tight.

Vorteilhaft weisen die im ersten Kupplungskörper vorgesehenen ersten Fluidkanäle jeweils einen ersten Kanalabschnitt und einen unmittelbar daran anschließenden zweiten Kanalabschnitt auf, wobei der Innendurchmesser des ersten Kanalabschnittes größer als der Innendurchmesser des zweiten Kanalabschnittes gewählt ist. Im nicht durchgeschalteter Betriebszustand befinden sich die Zulauföffnungen des ersten Ventilkolbenabschnittes jeweils im Bereich des zweiten Kanalabschnitt und sind damit verschlossen. Im geöffneten bzw. durchgeschalteten Betriebszustand befinden sich die Zulauföffnungen des ersten Ventilkolbenabschnittes im Bereich des ersten Kanalabschnittes und werden damit freigegeben. Hierbei ist der stabförmige Ventilkolben mit seinem zweiten Ventilkolbenabschnittlage- oder positionsfest im jeweils zweiten Fluidkanal des zweiten Kupplungskörpers aufgenommen.Advantageously, the first fluid passages provided in the first coupling body each have a first passage section and a second passage section adjoining thereto, the inner diameter of the first passage section being larger than the inner diameter of the second passage section. In the non-switched operating state, the inlet openings of the first valve piston section are each in the region of the second channel section and are thus closed. In the open or switched-through operating state, the inlet openings of the first valve piston section are in the region of the first channel section and are thus released. Here, the rod-shaped valve piston is received with its second Ventilkolbenabschnittlage- or fixed position in the respective second fluid channel of the second coupling body.

Gemäß einer weiteren vorteilhaften Weiterbildung der Erfindung weisen zur Herstellung der elektrischen Steckverbindungen der erste und zweite Kupplungskörper parallel zu den ersten und zweiten Fluidkanälen verlaufende, ebenfalls achsgleich angeordnete erste und zweite Bohrungen auf, wobei jeweils in einer ersten Bohrung ein Kontaktstiftelement und in einer gegenüberliegenden achsgleichen zweiten Bohrung ein Kontaktbuchsenelement angeordnet sind.According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, for the production of the electrical connectors of the first and second coupling body parallel to the first and second fluid channels extending, also coaxially arranged first and second holes, each in a first bore a contact pin element and in an opposite achsgleichen second Hole a contact socket element are arranged.

Vorteilhaft weist zweite Kupplungskörper einen ersten und zweiten Kupplungskörperabschnitt mit unterschiedlichem Außendurchmesser auf. Insbesondere ist der Außendurchmesser des ersten Kupplungskörperabschnittes größer als der des zweiten Kupplungskörperabschnittes, wobei der erste Kupplungskörperabschnittes in der Kupplungsmuffe geführt ist.Advantageously, the second coupling body has a first and a second coupling body section with different outer diameters. In particular, the outer diameter of the first coupling body portion is greater than that of the second coupling body portion, wherein the first coupling body portion is guided in the coupling sleeve.

In einer Weiterbildung der Erfindung schließt sich an den zweiten Kupplungskörper schlauchseitig ein schlauchseitiges Adapterkupplungselement an, welches vorzugsweise Teil des Versorgungsschlauches ist. Ferner umfasst die Kupplungsmuffe einen umlaufenden Randabschnitt und einen daran anschließenden im Querschnitt reduzierten Muffenabschnitt, welcher vorzugsweise an der Außenfläche ein Schraubgewinde aufweist, auf das ein Mutterelement aufschraubbar ist. An das Mutterelement schließt sich entlang der Längsachse in Richtung des schlauchseitigen Anschlussbereiches eine Befestigungshülse an, welche ebenfalls auf das Außengewinde der Kupplungsmuffe aufschraubbar ist.In a development of the invention, a hose-side adapter coupling element adjoins the second coupling body on the hose side, which is preferably part of the supply hose. Further, the coupling sleeve comprises a peripheral edge portion and a subsequent cross-section reduced sleeve portion, which preferably has on the outer surface of a screw thread on which a nut member is screwed. A fastening sleeve, which can likewise be screwed onto the external thread of the coupling sleeve, adjoins the nut element along the longitudinal axis in the direction of the hose-side connection region.

Auch kann ein steuerseitig angeordnetes Anschlussadapterelement vorgesehen sein, über welches zumindest die Zuführung der Fluida in die ersten Fluidkanäle des einen Ventilkolben bildenden ersten Kupplungskörpers erfolgt. Das Anschlussadapterelement weist senkrecht zur Längsachse verlaufende Durchführungskanäle auf, die jeweils mit parallel zur Längsachse verlaufenden Zuführungskanälen verbunden sind, welche achs- und positionsgleich zu den ersten Fluidkanälen des ersten Kupplungskörpers angeordnet sind. Im Bereich der Kreuzungspunkte der Durchführungs- und Zuführungskanäle sind vorteilhaft jeweils Dosiermittel vorgesehen, über welche die Zuführmenge des jeweils zugeführten Fluides einstellbar ist.A connection adapter element arranged on the control side may also be provided, via which at least the supply of the fluids into the first fluid channels of the first coupling body forming a valve piston takes place. The connection adapter element has guide channels extending perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis, which channels are each connected to feed channels running parallel to the longitudinal axis, which are arranged in the same position as the first fluid channels of the first coupling body. In the region of the crossing points of the feedthrough and feed channels, dosing means are advantageously provided, via which the supply quantity of the respective supplied fluid can be set.

In einer bevorzugten Ausführungsvariante ist vorgesehen, dass zumindest drei erste Fluidkanäle im ersten Kupplungskörper und zumindest drei zweite Fluidkanäle im zweiten Kupplungskörper zur Durchführung von Wasser, Antriebsluft und Blasluft durch die Kupplungsvorrichtung integriert sind.In a preferred embodiment, it is provided that at least three first fluid channels in the first coupling body and at least three second fluid channels in the second coupling body for the passage of water, drive air and blowing air are integrated by the coupling device.

Zudem ergeben sich Weiterbildungen, Vorteile und Anwendungsmöglichkeiten der Neuerung auch aus der nachfolgenden Beschreibung von Ausführungsbeispielen und aus den Figuren. Dabei sind alle beschriebenen und/oder bildlich dargestellten Merkmale für sich oder in beliebiger Kombination grundsätzlich Gegenstand der Neuerung, unabhängig von ihrer Zusammenfassung in den Ansprüchen oder deren Rückbeziehung. Auch wird der Inhalt der Ansprüche zu einem Bestandteil der Beschreibung gemacht. Es zeigen:

Fig. 1
beispielhaft eine schematische Seitenansicht einer zahnmedizinischen Vorrichtung,
Fig. 2
beispielhaft eine perspektivischen Ansicht einer erfindungsgemäßen Kupplungsvorrichtung,
Fig. 3
beispielhaft eine Explosionsdarstellung der erfindungsgemäßen Kupplungsvorrichtung gemäß Figur 2,
Fig. 4
beispielhaft eine stirnseitige Ansicht der erfindungsgemäßen Kupplungsvorrichtung,
Fig. 5
beispielhaft einen Schnitt entlang der Linie A-A durch die erfindungsgemäßen Kupplungsvorrichtung gemäß Figur 4,
Fig. 6
beispielhaft eine stirnseitige Ansicht der erfindungsgemäßen Kupplungsvorrichtung und
Fig. 7
beispielhaft einen Schnitt entlang der Linie B-B durch die erfindungsgemäßen Kupplungsvorrichtung gemäß Figur 6.
In addition, developments, advantages and applications of the innovation also result from the following description of exemplary embodiments and the figures. In this case, all described and / or illustrated features alone or in any combination fundamentally subject to innovation, regardless of their summary in the claims or their dependency. Also, the content of the claims is made an integral part of the description. Show it:
Fig. 1
by way of example a schematic side view of a dental device,
Fig. 2
by way of example a perspective view of a coupling device according to the invention,
Fig. 3
an example of an exploded view of the coupling device according to the invention FIG. 2 .
Fig. 4
an example of an end view of the coupling device according to the invention,
Fig. 5
by way of example a section along the line AA through the coupling device according to the invention FIG. 4 .
Fig. 6
an example of an end view of the coupling device according to the invention and
Fig. 7
exemplified a section along the line BB through the coupling device according to the invention FIG. 6 ,

In Figur 1 ist beispielhaft eine zahnmedizinische Vorrichtung 1 dargestellt, welche zumindest eine Versorgungs- und Steuereinheit 2 aufweist. Die Versorgungs- und Steuereinheit 2 ist zur gesteuerten Bereitstellung von zumindest einem Fluid, elektrischer Energie und/oder Steuersignalen ausgebildet.In FIG. 1 By way of example, a dental device 1 is shown which has at least one supply and control unit 2. The supply and control unit 2 is designed for the controlled provision of at least one fluid, electrical energy and / or control signals.

Eine zahnmedizinische Vorrichtung 1 kann beispielsweise einen fahrbaren Wagen 3 umfassen, auf dem die Versorgungs- und Steuereinheit 2 angeordnet ist. Alternativ kann die zahnmedizinische Vorrichtung 1 auch Teil einer zahnmedizinischen Behandlungseinheit sein, die beispielsweise schwenk- und/oder höhenverstellbar an einer Behandlungsstuhleinheit angeordnet ist (nicht in den Figuren dargestellt).A dental device 1 may for example comprise a mobile carriage 3, on which the supply and control unit 2 is arranged. Alternatively, the dental device 1 may also be part of a dental treatment unit be, for example, which is pivotally and / or height-adjustable arranged on a treatment chair unit (not shown in the figures).

An die Versorgungs- und Steuereinheit 2 ist jeweils über eine erfindungsgemäße Kupplungsvorrichtung 4 ein zahnärztliches Instrument 5 anschließbar, und zwar über einen Versorgungsschlauch 6. Ausgehend von der Kupplungsvorrichtung 4 wird mittels des Versorgungsschlauches 6 eine Leitungsverbindung zur Übertragung von vorzugsweise mehrerer Fluida, elektrischer Energie und/oder Steuersignalen an das zahnärztliche Instrument 5 hergestellt. Vorzugsweise weist ein zahnmedizinisches Gerät 1 mehrere zahnärztliche Instrumente 5 auf, die jeweils über einen Versorgungsschlauch 6 und eine Kupplungsvorrichtung 4 an die Versorgungs- und Steuereinheit 2 angeschlossen sind. In Figur 1 ist beispielhaft zur Erläuterung des prinzipiellen Aufbaus einer erfindungsgemäßen Kupplungsvorrichtung 4 lediglich ein an die Versorgungs- und Steuereinheit 2 angeschlossenes zahnärztliches Instrument 5 dargestellt.A dental instrument 5 can be connected to the supply and control unit 2 via a coupling device 4 according to the invention, specifically via a supply hose 6. Starting from the coupling device 4, by means of the supply hose 6, a line connection for the transmission of preferably several fluids, electrical energy and / or or control signals to the dental instrument 5 made. Preferably, a dental device 1 has a plurality of dental instruments 5, which are each connected via a supply hose 6 and a coupling device 4 to the supply and control unit 2. In FIG. 1 By way of example, only a dental instrument 5 connected to the supply and control unit 2 is shown to explain the basic structure of a coupling device 4 according to the invention.

Unter einem zahnärztlichen Instrument 5 wird ein zahnärztliches Behandlungsinstrument beispielsweise eine Handstückeinheit mit einem darin auswechselbar aufgenommenen Behandlungswerkzeug, ein vorzugsweise in Ultraschalltechnologie realisierter Zahnsteinsteinentferner, eine Sprühpistole oder ein Absauginstrument verstanden. Zum Betrieb derartiger zahnärztlicher Instrumente 5 sind häufig unterschiedliche Fluida, elektrische Energie und/oder Steuersignale erforderlich. Vorzugsweise werden beispielsweise die Fluida Wasser, Blasluft und Antriebsluft, eine elektrische Versorgungsspannung und/oder elektrische oder pneumatische Steuersignale von der Versorgungs- und Steuereinheit 2 bereitgestellt. Der Versorgungsschlauch 6 weist an sich mehrere Schläuche sowie elektrische Verbindungskabel auf, über welche die mittels der Kupplungsvorrichtung 4 bereitgestellten Fluida, die elektrische Energie und die Steuersignale an das zahnmedizinische Instrument 6 übertragen werden.A dental instrument 5 is understood as meaning a dental treatment instrument, for example a handpiece unit with a treatment tool received interchangeably therein, a tartar stone remover preferably realized in ultrasound technology, a spray gun or a suction instrument. For the operation of such dental instruments 5 often different fluids, electrical energy and / or control signals are required. Preferably, for example, the fluids water, blown air and drive air, an electrical supply voltage and / or electrical or pneumatic control signals from the supply and control unit 2 are provided. The supply hose 6 comprises a plurality of hoses and electrical connection cables via which the fluids, the electrical energy and the control signals provided by the coupling device 4 are transmitted to the dental instrument 6.

Figur 2 zeigt beispielhaft eine perspektivische Darstellung einer erfindungsgemäßen Kupplungsvorrichtung 4 und Figur 3 eine zughörige Explosionsdarstellung. Die Kupplungsvorrichtung 4 weist einen steuerseitigen Anschlussbereich 4' und einen schlauchseitigen Anschlussbereich 4" auf, wobei sich nach erfolgter Montage der Kupplungsvorrichtung 4 der steuerseitige Anschlussbereich 4' beispielsweise innerhalb des Gehäuses der Versorgungs- und Steuereinheit 2 und der schlauchseitige Anschlussbereich 4" außerhalb des Gehäuses der Versorgungs- und Steuereinheit 2 befindet. FIG. 2 shows an example of a perspective view of a coupling device 4 and FIG. 3 a pending exploded view. The coupling device 4 has a control-side connection region 4 'and a hose-side connection region 4 ", wherein, after assembly of the coupling device 4, the control-side connection region 4', for example within the Housing the supply and control unit 2 and the hose-side connection area 4 "outside the housing of the supply and control unit 2 is located.

Die Kupplungsvorrichtung 4 umfasst zumindest eine Kupplungsmuffe 7, in der zumindest teilweise ein erster Kupplungskörper 8 und teilweise ein zweiter Kupplungskörper 9 entlang der Längsachse LA der Kupplungsmuffe 7 bzw. der Kupplungsvorrichtung 4 aufgenommen sind, wobei der erste Kupplungskörper 8 mehrere erste Fluidkanäle 10 und erste elektrische Steckverbindungen 11 sowie der zweite Kupplungskörper 9 mehrere zweite Fluidkanäle 12 und zweite elektrische Steckverbindungen 13 aufweisen.The coupling device 4 comprises at least one coupling sleeve 7 in which at least partially a first coupling body 8 and partially a second coupling body 9 are received along the longitudinal axis LA of the coupling sleeve 7 and the coupling device 4, wherein the first coupling body 8 a plurality of first fluid channels 10 and first electrical Plug connections 11 and the second coupling body 9 have a plurality of second fluid channels 12 and second electrical connections 13.

Erfindungsgemäß bildet die Kupplungsvorrichtung 4 eine schaltbare Ventil-Kupplung aus, mittels der die Fluidkanäle 10, 12 und die elektrischen Steckverbindungen 11, 13 vorzugsweise gleichzeitig durchschaltbar sind. Die Kupplungsvorrichtung 4 ist hierbei durch Beaufschlagung mit Druckluft schaltbar, d.h. von einem ersten Betriebszustand, bei dem keine leitende Verbindung zwischen den Fluidkanälen 10, 12 und den elektrischen Steckverbindungen 11, 13 zwischen dem ersten und zweiten Kupplungskörper 8, 9 besteht, in einen zweiten Betriebszustand, bei dem entsprechende Verbindungen durchgeschaltet sind, umschaltbar.According to the invention, the coupling device 4 forms a switchable valve coupling, by means of which the fluid channels 10, 12 and the electrical connectors 11, 13 are preferably simultaneously switched through. The coupling device 4 is in this case switchable by application of compressed air, i. from a first operating state, in which there is no conductive connection between the fluid channels 10, 12 and the electrical connectors 11, 13 between the first and second coupling body 8, 9, in a second operating state in which corresponding connections are switched through, switchable.

Hierzu ist der erste Kupplungskörper 8 axial, und zwar entlang der Längsachse LA der Kupplungsvorrichtung 4 bzw. der Kupplungsmuffe 7, verschiebbar in der Kupplungsmuffe 7 aufgenommen. Der erste Kupplungskörpers 8 wird durch die Kupplungsmuffe 7 axial geführt und ist im steuerseitigen Anschlussbereich 4' der Kupplungsvorrichtung 4 vorgesehen. Der zweite Kupplungskörper 9 schließt sich entlang der Längsachse LA an den ersten Kupplungskörper 8 in Richtung des schlauchseitigen Anschlussbereiches 4" an und ist im montierten Zustand lage- oder positionsfest in der Kupplungsmuffe 7 aufgenommen. Bei nicht durchgeschalteter Kupplungsvorrichtung 4 ist der erste Kupplungskörper 8 beabstandet zum zweiten Kupplungskörper 9 in der Kupplungsmuffe 7 angeordnet. Im durchgeschalteten Zustand liegen die gegenüberliegenden Stirnseiten des ersten und zweiten Kupplungskörpers 9 aneinander an.For this purpose, the first coupling body 8 is axially, and taken along the longitudinal axis LA of the coupling device 4 and the coupling sleeve 7, slidably received in the coupling sleeve 7. The first coupling body 8 is axially guided by the coupling sleeve 7 and is provided in the control-side connection region 4 'of the coupling device 4. The second coupling body 9 joins along the longitudinal axis LA to the first coupling body 8 in the direction of the hose-side connection region 4 "and is in the mounted state positionally or fixedly received in the coupling sleeve 7. When not switched through coupling device 4, the first coupling body 8 is spaced from the second coupling body 9 is arranged in the coupling sleeve 7. In the through-connected state, the opposite end faces of the first and second coupling body 9 abut each other.

Der erste Kupplungskörpers 8 bildet erfindungsgemäß einen axial verschiebbarer Ventilkolbenkörper aus, der durch Beaufschlagung mit Druckluft von einer ersten Kolbenposition in eine zweite Kolbenposition und vice versa bewegbar ist.The first coupling body 8 according to the invention forms an axially displaceable valve piston body, which is movable by application of compressed air from a first piston position to a second piston position and vice versa.

Hierzu ist der erste Kupplungskörper 8 im Wesentlichen zylinderförmig ausgebildet und weist einen ersten Kupplungskörperabschnitt 8.1 und einen zweiten Kupplungskörperabschnitt 8.2 auf. Im vorliegenden Ausführungsbeispiel weist der erste Kupplungskörperabschnitt 8.1 im an den zweiten Kupplungskörperabschnitt 8.2 anschließenden Randabschnitt eine äußere umlaufende Nut 8.3 auf. Der erste und zweite Kupplungskörperabschnitt 8.1, 8.2 besitzen unterschiedliche Außendurchmesser und bilden damit eine gestufte Zylinderoberfläche, und zwar derart, dass der zweite Kupplungskörperabschnitt 8.2 einen radial von der Längsachse LA nach außen abstehenden, ringförmigen Randabschnitt mit einer in Richtung des ersten Kupplungskörperabschnittes 8.1 orientierten ringförmigen seitlichen Anschlagfläche 8.4 bildet.For this purpose, the first coupling body 8 is substantially cylindrical in shape and has a first coupling body portion 8.1 and a second coupling body portion 8.2. In the present exemplary embodiment, the first coupling body section 8.1 has an outer circumferential groove 8.3 in the edge section adjoining the second coupling body section 8.2. The first and second coupling body portion 8.1, 8.2 have different outer diameter and thus form a stepped cylinder surface, in such a way that the second coupling body 8.2 a radially outwardly from the longitudinal axis LA projecting annular edge portion with an oriented in the direction of the first coupling body portion 8.1 annular lateral Stop surface 8.4 forms.

Zur Ausbildung eines ringförmigen Ventilraumes 14 weist die Kupplungsmuffe 7 einen entlang der Längsachse LA gestuften Innenflächenverlauf auf. Dieser wird durch einen ersten und zweiten, entlang der Längsachse LA aneinander anschließenden Kupplungsmuffenabschnitt 7.1, 7.2 gebildet, wobei der erste Kupplungsmuffenabschnitt 7.1 einen kleineren Innendurchmesser als der zweite Kupplungsmuffenabschnitt 7.2 aufweist. Hierbei ist der Innendurchmesser des ersten Kupplungsmuffenabschnittes 7.1 an den Außendurchmesser des ersten Kupplungskörperabschnittes 8.1 und der Innendurchmesser des ersten Kupplungsmuffenabschnittes 7.2 an den Außendurchmesser des zweiten Kupplungskörperabschnittes 8.2 angepasst. Somit entsteht im Übergangsbereich zwischen dem ersten und zweiten Kupplungsmuffenabschnitt 7.1, 7.2 eine ringförmige Anschlagfläche 7.3, an der sich der zweite Kupplungskörperabschnitt 8.2 des ersten Kupplungskörpers 8 bzw. des ringförmige seitliche Anschlagfläche 8.4 in der ersten Kolbenposition abstützt.To form an annular valve space 14, the coupling sleeve 7 has a stepped inner surface course along the longitudinal axis LA. This is formed by a first and second, along the longitudinal axis LA adjoining coupling sleeve portion 7.1, 7.2, wherein the first coupling sleeve portion 7.1 has a smaller inner diameter than the second coupling sleeve portion 7.2. Here, the inner diameter of the first coupling sleeve portion 7.1 is adapted to the outer diameter of the first coupling body portion 8.1 and the inner diameter of the first coupling sleeve portion 7.2 to the outer diameter of the second coupling body portion 8.2. Thus arises in the transition region between the first and second coupling sleeve portion 7.1, 7.2 an annular stop surface 7.3, at which the second coupling body 8.2 of the first coupling body 8 and the annular lateral stop surface 8.4 is supported in the first piston position.

Der ringförmige Ventilraum 14 wird somit von dem stufenförmigen Innenflächenabschnitt der Kupplungsmuffe 7 und dem stufenförmigen, die Nut 8.3 einschließenden Außenflächenabschnitt des ersten Kupplungskörpers 8 gebildet. Sowohl der erste als auch der zweite Kupplungskörperabschnitt 8.1, 8.2 weisen jeweils eine umlaufende Führungsnut 8.11, 8.21 zur Aufnahme eines umlaufenden Dichtungselements, vorzugsweise eines O-Ringes auf. Somit ergibt sich eine fluiddichte Verbindung zwischen der Außenfläche des ersten Kupplungskörpers 8 und der Innenfläche der Kupplungsmuffe 7.The annular valve space 14 is thus formed by the step-shaped inner surface portion of the coupling sleeve 7 and the stepped, the groove 8.3 enclosing outer surface portion of the first coupling body 8. Both the first and the second coupling body section 8.1, 8.2 each have a circumferential guide groove 8.11, 8.21 for receiving a circumferential sealing element, preferably an O-ring. This results in a fluid-tight connection between the outer surface of the first coupling body 8 and the inner surface of the coupling sleeve 7.

Die Zuführung der Druckluft bzw. Steuerluft erfolgt über eine in der Wandung der Kupplungsmuffe 7 entlang der Längsachse LA von der steuerseitigen Stirnseite der Kupplungsmuffe 7 zum ringförmigen Ventilraumes 14 geführte Bohrung 15, bei der ausgangsseitig ein Doppelnippel 16 zum Anschluss eines Druckschlauches vorgesehen ist. Dieser bildet damit den Steuerlufteingang der Kupplungsvorrichtung 4 aus.The supply of compressed air or control air via a in the wall of the coupling sleeve 7 along the longitudinal axis LA of the control-side end side of the coupling sleeve 7 to the annular valve chamber 14 guided bore 15, in the output side, a double nipple 16 is provided for connecting a pressure hose. This thus forms the control air inlet of the coupling device 4.

Zum gesteuerten Durchschalten einzelner Fluida ist zumindest ein Teil der ersten Fluidkanäle 10 des ersten Kupplungskörpers 8 mit einem Teil der zweiten Fluidkanäle 12 des zweiten Kupplungskörpers 9 jeweils kanalweise verbunden, und zwar jeweils über einen stabförmigen Ventilkolben 17. Der stabförmige Ventilkolben 17 verfügt über eine Innenbohrung, die sich entlang der Kolbenlängsachse erstreckt, und zwar ausgehend von einer quer zur Kolbenlängsachse verlaufende Zulaufbohrung 18 mit zwei gegenüberliegenden Zulauföffnungen und einer stirnseitigen Auslauföffnung. Der die beiden seitlichen Zulauföffnungen aufweisende erste Ventilkolbenabschnitt 17.1 ist hierbei in einem Fluidkanal 10 des ersten Kupplungskörpers 8 und der die stirnseitige Auslauföffnung aufweisen zweite Ventilkolbenabschnitt 17.2 im achsgleich angeordneten Fluidkanal 12 des zweiten Kupplungskörpers aufgenommen.For the controlled switching through of individual fluids, at least a part of the first fluid channels 10 of the first coupling body 8 is connected in each case to a part of the second fluid channels 12 of the second coupling body 9, in each case via a rod-shaped valve piston 17. The rod-shaped valve piston 17 has an inner bore, extending along the piston longitudinal axis, starting from a transverse to the piston longitudinal axis inlet bore 18 with two opposite inlet openings and a frontal outlet opening. The first valve piston section 17.1 having the two lateral inlet openings is here received in a fluid channel 10 of the first coupling body 8 and the second valve piston section 17.2 has the end outlet opening in the fluid channel 12 of the second coupling body arranged coaxially.

Abhängig von der Kolbenposition des als Ventilkolbenkörper ausgebildeten ersten Kupplungskörpers 8 werden die Zulauföffnungen des ersten Ventilkolbenabschnittes 17.1 freigegeben oder fluiddicht verschlossen und damit der Bereitstellung des jeweiligen Fluides über die zugeordneten Fluidkanäle 10, 12 gesteuert. Zur Realisierung dessen weisen die im ersten Kupplungskörper 8 vorgesehenen Fluidkanäle 10 jeweils einen ersten Kanalabschnitt 10.1 und einen unmittelbar daran anschließenden zweiten Kanalabschnitt 10.2 auf, wobei der Innendurchmesser des ersten Kanalabschnittes 10.1 größer als der Innendurchmesser des zweiten Kanalabschnittes 10.2 gewählt ist, so dass sich ein abgeschrägter stufenartiger Verlauf der Kanalinnenfläche ergibt. In der erster Kolbenposition befinden sich die Zulauföffnungen des ersten Ventilkolbenabschnittes 17.1 jeweils im zweiten Kanalabschnitt 10.2 und werden mittels zweier, die Zulauföffnungen einschließenden, in umlaufenden Führungsnuten aufgenommenen Dichtungselementen, vorzugsweise O-Ringen gegenüber der Kanalinnenfläche des zweiten Kanalabschnittes 10.2 abgedichtet.Depending on the piston position of the valve body formed as a first coupling body 8, the inlet openings of the first valve piston portion 17.1 are released or sealed fluid-tight and thus the provision of the respective fluid via the associated fluid channels 10, 12 controlled. To realize this, the fluid channels 10 provided in the first coupling body 8 each have a first channel section 10.1 and a second channel section 10.2 immediately adjacent thereto, the inner diameter of the first channel section 10.1 being greater than the inner diameter of the second channel section 10.2, so that a bevelled one gradual course of the channel inner surface results. In the first piston position, the inlet openings of the first valve piston section 17.1 are each in the second channel section 10.2 and are sealed by means of two, the inlet openings included, received in circumferential guide grooves seal elements, preferably O-rings relative to the channel inner surface of the second channel section 10.2.

In der zweiten Kolbenposition kommen die Zulauföffnungen des ersten Ventilkolbenabschnittes 17.1 im Bereich des ersten Kanalabschnittes 10.1 zu liegen und werden aufgrund des größeren Innendurchmessers freigegeben, so dass ein über den ersten Fluidkanal 10 des ersten Kupplungskörpers zugeführtes Fluid über die Zulauföffnungen in die Innenbohrung 18 zur Auslassöffnung des zweiten Ventilkolbenabschnittes 17.2 geführt wird und schließlich über den weiteren zweiten Fluidkanal 12 des zweiten Kupplungskörpers 9 an den schlauchseitigen Anschlussbereich 4" gelangt. Zum Anschluss von Verbindungsschläuchen oder eines Anschlussadapterelementes 19 sind die steuerseitigen Öffnungen der ersten Fluidkanäle 10 des ersten Kupplungskörpers 8 mit Verbindungsnippelelementen 20 versehen. Der Ventilkolben 17 ist vorzugsweise mit seinem zweiten Ventilkolbenabschnitt 17.2 lage- oder positionsfest im jeweiligen zweiten Fluidkanal 12 des zweiten Kupplungskörpers 9 aufgenommen.In the second piston position, the inlet openings of the first valve piston section 17.1 come to lie in the region of the first channel section 10.1 and are released due to the larger inner diameter, so that a fluid supplied via the first fluid channel 10 of the first coupling body via the inlet openings into the inner bore 18 to the outlet opening of The second valve piston section 17.2 is guided and finally reaches the hose-side connection region 4 "via the further second fluid channel 12 of the second coupling body 9. To connect connection tubes or a connection adapter element 19, the control-side openings of the first fluid channels 10 of the first coupling body 8 are provided with connection nipple elements 20. The valve piston 17 is preferably received with its second valve piston portion 17.2 positionally or positionally fixed in the respective second fluid channel 12 of the second coupling body 9.

Vorzugsweise ist zwischen jeweils einem steuerseitig in einem ersten Fluidkanal 10 aufgenommenen Verbindungsnippelelement 20 und dem ebenfalls darin befindlichen ersten Ventilkolbenabschnitt 17.1 des stabförmigen Ventilkolbens 17 ein Federelement (nicht in den Figuren dargestellt) vorgesehen, mittels dem eine axial wirkende Vorspannung über das lage- oder positionsfest im zweiten Kupplungskörpers 9 aufgenommene Ventilkolben 17 zwischen dem ersten und zweiten Kupplungskörper 8, 9 aufgebaut wird. Mittels der Vorspannung wird der als Ventilkolbenkörper ausgebildete erste Kupplungskörper 8 ohne Beaufschlagung mit Steuerluft in der ersten Kolbenposition gehalten, d.h. der zweite Kupplungskörperabschnitt 8.2 des ersten Kupplungskörpers 8 liegt randseitig an der Anschlagfläche 7.3 der Kupplungsmuffe 7 an. Bei Zuführung von Steuerluft wird der erste Kupplungskörpers 8 gegen die Vorspannung axial in die zweite Kolbenposition verschoben, und zwar gegen die dem ersten Kupplungskörper 8 zugewandte Stirnseite den zweiten Kupplungskörper 9 gedrückt.Preferably, a spring element (not shown in the figures) is provided between a control nipple element 20 received in a first fluid channel 10 and the first valve piston section 17.1 of the rod-shaped valve piston 17, by means of which an axially acting preload is applied via the positionally or fixedly fixed position second clutch body 9 recorded valve piston 17 between the first and second coupling body 8, 9 is constructed. By means of the bias voltage, the first clutch body 8 designed as a valve piston body is held in the first piston position without being exposed to control air, i. the second coupling body section 8.2 of the first coupling body 8 rests against the stop surface 7.3 of the coupling sleeve 7 at the edge. With the supply of control air, the first coupling body 8 is axially displaced against the bias in the second piston position, against the first coupling body 8 facing the end of the second clutch body 9 pressed.

Ferner sind in den schlauchseitigen Öffnungen der zweiten Fluidkanäle 12 des zweiten Kupplungskörpers 9 ebenfalls Verbindungsnippelelemente 21 aufgenommen, um den Anschluss von Verbindungsschläuchen zu ermöglichen. Im vorliegenden Ausführungsbeispiel sind drei erste Fluidkanäle 10 im ersten Kupplungskörper 8 und drei zweite Fluidkanäle 12 im zweiten Kupplungskörper 9 vorgesehen, über welche Wasser, Antriebsluft und Blasluft durch die Kupplungsvorrichtung 4 geführt wird. Zusätzlich ist noch jeweils ein weiterer Fluidkanal im ersten und zweiten Kupplungskörper 8, 9 vorgesehen, welcher keinen Ventilkolben 17 aufweist, sondern welche über einen Verbindungsnippelelement miteinander verbunden sind. Dieser durchgehende, nicht schaltbare weitere Fluidkanal ist zur Rückführung von Luft aus dem zahnmedizinischen Gerät 5 über den Versorgungsschlauch 6 vorgesehen.Further, in the hose-side openings of the second fluid channels 12 of the second coupling body 9 also Verbindungsnippelelemente 21 are added to allow the connection of connecting hoses. In the present exemplary embodiment, three first fluid channels 10 are provided in the first coupling body 8 and three second fluid channels 12 are provided in the second coupling body 9, via which water, drive air and blowing air are passed through the coupling device 4. In addition, in each case a further fluid channel in the first and second coupling body 8, 9th provided, which has no valve piston 17, but which are connected to each other via a Verbindungsnippelelement. This continuous, non-switchable further fluid channel is provided for the return of air from the dental device 5 via the supply hose 6.

Zur Herstellung der elektrischen Steckverbindungen 11, 13 weisen der erste und zweite Kupplungskörper 8, 9 ferner parallel zu den ersten und zweiten Fluidkanälen 10, 12 verlaufende, ebenfalls achsgleich angeordnete erste und zweite Bohrungen 22, 23 auf. Hierbei sind jeweils in der ersten Bohrung 22 ein Kontaktstiftelement 24 und in der gegenüberliegenden achsgleichen zweiten Bohrung 23 ein Kontaktbuchsenelement 25 zur technischen Realisierung der Steckverbindung 11, 13 vorgesehen.For the production of the electrical connectors 11, 13, the first and second coupling body 8, 9 further parallel to the first and second fluid channels 10, 12 extending, also coaxially arranged first and second bores 22, 23. Here, in each case in the first bore 22, a contact pin element 24 and in the opposite axis-same second bore 23, a contact socket element 25 for the technical realization of the connector 11, 13 are provided.

In einer bevorzugten Ausführungsvariante gemäß Figur 7 weisen die ersten Bohrungen 22 einen ersten steuerseitigen Bohrungsabschnitt 22.1 und einen daran anschließenden zweiten Bohrungsabschnitt 22.2 auf, wobei der Durchmesser der ersten Bohrung 22 im zweiten Bohrungsabschnitt 22.2 kleiner als im ersten Bohrungsabschnitt 22.1 gewählt ist. Das Kontaktstiftelement 24 wird im zweiten Bohrungsabschnitt 22.2 gehalten und ragt mit dem einem freien Ende in den ersten Bohrungsabschnitt 22.1 hinein und steht mit dem gegenüberliegenden weiteren freien Ende von der Stirnseite des ersten Kupplungskörper in Richtung der Längsachse LA nach außen ab, welches den Steckabschnitt der Steckerverbindung 11, 13 bildet.In a preferred embodiment according to FIG. 7 The first bores 22 have a first control-side bore section 22.1 and an adjoining second bore section 22.2, wherein the diameter of the first bore 22 in the second bore section 22.2 is smaller than in the first bore section 22.1. The contact pin element 24 is held in the second bore section 22.2 and protrudes with the one free end into the first bore section 22.1 and projects with the opposite further free end of the front side of the first coupling body in the direction of the longitudinal axis LA to the outside, which the plug portion of the plug connection 11, 13 forms.

Die gegenüberliegende zweite Bohrung 23 erstreckt sich ebenfalls entlang der Längsachse LA und weist durchgehend denselben Durchmesser auf, wobei dieser vorzugsweise mit dem Durchmesser des ersten Bohrungsabschnittes 22.1 der ersten Bohrung 22 übereinstimmt und zur Aufnahme des Kontaktbuchsenelementes 25 ausgebildet ist. In der vorliegenden Ausführungsvariante weist das Kontaktbuchsenelement 25 ein stiftartiges Ende auf, mit welchem es von der Stirnseite des zweiten Kupplungskörpers 9 schlauchseitig in Richtung der Längsachse LA absteht und somit einen Kontaktstecker zum Anschluss einer Kontaktbuchse bildet. Analog hierzu kann in den ersten Bohrungsabschnitt 22.1 eine Steckbuchse mit einem daran angeschlossenen elektrischen Leiter zur Herstellung einer elektrisch leitenden Verbindung mit dem Kontaktstiftelement 24 in den ersten Bohrungsabschnitt 22.1 steuerseitig eingeführt werden, wobei der elektrische Leiter über die ersten Bohrungen 22 an das jeweilige Kontaktstiftelement 24 geführt wird.The opposite second bore 23 also extends along the longitudinal axis LA and has the same diameter throughout, which preferably corresponds to the diameter of the first bore section 22.1 of the first bore 22 and is designed to receive the contact sleeve element 25. In the present embodiment, the contact socket element 25 has a pin-like end with which it projects from the end face of the second coupling body 9 on the hose side in the direction of the longitudinal axis LA and thus forms a contact plug for connecting a contact socket. Analogously, in the first bore portion 22.1 a socket with an electrical conductor connected thereto for the purpose of establishing an electrically conductive connection with the contact pin element 24 in the first bore portion 22.1 are introduced control side, wherein the electrical conductor via the first holes 22 to the respective contact pin element 24 becomes.

Zum Anschluss des Versorgungsschlauches 6 bzw. der darin aufgenommen Schläuche und elektrischen Verbindungskabel an die Kupplungsvorrichtung 4 schließt sich in der Kupplungsvorrichtung 4 schlauchseitig an den zweiten Kupplungskörper 9 eine schlauchseitiges Adapterkupplungselement 26 an, welches vorzugsweise Teil des Versorgungsschlauches 6 ist. Dieses ist auf das schlauchseitige Ende des zweiten Kupplungskörpers 9 aufsteckbar, und zwar vorzugsweise derart, dass dieses zumindest freiendseitig noch teilweise von der Kupplungsmuffe 7 aufgenommen ist. Hierzu weist der zweite Kupplungskörper 9 in der in Figur 3, 5 und 7 dargestellten Ausführungsvariante beispielweise einen ersten und zweiten Kupplungskörperabschnitt 9.1, 9.2 auf, welche unterschiedliche Außendurchmesser besitzen. Der Außendurchmesser des ersten Kupplungskörperabschnittes 9.1 ist größer als der des zweiten Kupplungskörperabschnittes 9.2, wobei der erste Kupplungskörperabschnittes 9.1 in der Kupplungsmuffe 7 geführt ist und der zweite Kupplungskörperabschnitt 9.2 hinsichtlich seines Außendurchmessers derart bemessen ist, dass eine klemmende Aufnahme des Adapterkupplungselementes 26 zwischen der Außenfläche des zweiten Kupplungskörperabschnittes 9.2 und der Innenfläche des freien Endes der Kupplungsmuffe 7 erfolgt.To connect the supply hose 6 or the hoses and electrical connection cable contained therein to the coupling device 4, a hose-side adapter coupling element 26 connects in the coupling device 4 on the hose side to the second coupling body 9, which is preferably part of the supply hose 6. This can be plugged onto the hose-side end of the second clutch body 9, preferably in such a way that it is at least partially supported on the freewheeling side by the clutch sleeve 7. For this purpose, the second coupling body 9 in the in FIG. 3 . 5 and 7 illustrated embodiment, for example, a first and second coupling body portion 9.1, 9.2, which have different outer diameter. The outer diameter of the first coupling body portion 9.1 is greater than that of the second coupling body portion 9.2, wherein the first Kupplungsungskörperabschnittes 9.1 is guided in the coupling sleeve 7 and the second coupling body portion 9.2 is dimensioned in terms of its outer diameter such that a clamping receiving the adapter coupling element 26 between the outer surface of the second Coupling body portion 9.2 and the inner surface of the free end of the coupling sleeve 7 takes place.

Die den ersten und zweiten Kupplungskörper 8,9 miteinander verbindende Kupplungsmuffe 7 weist am steuerseitigen Ende einen axial nach außen abstehenden, umlaufende Randabschnitt 7' auf, welcher eine seitliche, ringförmige Anlagefläche bildet, an der das Gehäuse der Versorgungs- und Steuereinheit 2 anliegt. An den umlaufenden Randabschnitt 7' schließt sicht ein im Querschnitt reduzierter Muffenabschnitt 7" an, welcher vorzugsweise an der Außenfläche ein Schraubgewinde aufweist. Auf das Schraubgewinde ist eine Mutterelement 27 aufschraubbar ist. Damit ist eine klemmende Befestigung der Kupplungsvorrichtung 4 in einer kreisförmigen Ausnehmung der Gehäusewand oder dergleichen ebenen Befestigungsfläche der Versorgungs- und Steuereinheit 2 möglich. Die Befestigung erfolgt hierbei durch Verschrauben des Mutterelementes 27 mit der Kupplungsmuffe 7, sodass ein Klemmsitz zwischen dem Randbereich 7' der Kupplungsmuffe 7 und dem Randbereich 27' des Mutterelementes 27 entsteht.The first and second coupling body 8.9 interconnecting coupling sleeve 7 has at the control end an axially outwardly projecting, peripheral edge portion 7 ', which forms a lateral, annular contact surface against which the housing of the supply and control unit 2. The peripheral edge portion 7 'is adjoined by a sleeve portion 7 "which is reduced in cross-section and preferably has a screw thread on the outside surface or the like flat mounting surface of the supply and control unit 2. The attachment is in this case by screwing the nut member 27 with the coupling sleeve 7 so that a clamping fit between the edge portion 7 'of the coupling sleeve 7 and the edge portion 27' of the nut member 27 is formed.

An das Mutterelement 27 schließt sich entlang der Längsachse LA in Richtung des schlauchseitigen Anschlussbereiches 4" eine Befestigungshülse 34 an, welche ebenfalls auf das Außengewinde der Kupplungsmuffe 7 aufschraubbar ist. Die Befestigungshülse 34 nimmt ferner das Adapterkupplungselement 26 auf und durch Verschrauben dessen mit der Kupplungsmuffe 7 wird das Adapterkupplungselement 26 auf das stirnseitige freie Ende der der Kupplungsmuffe 7 gepresst und ein Klemmverbindung zwischen zweitem Kupplungskörper 9, Adapterkupplungselement 26 und schlauchseitigen reduzierten Muffenabschnitt 7" der Kupplungsmuffe 7 hergestellt.On the nut member 27 is followed along the longitudinal axis LA in the direction of the hose-side connection area 4 "a fastening sleeve 34, which also on the external thread of the coupling sleeve 7 can be screwed. The mounting sleeve 34 also receives the adapter coupling element 26 and by screwing it with the coupling sleeve 7, the adapter coupling element 26 is pressed onto the frontal free end of the coupling sleeve 7 and a clamping connection between the second coupling body 9, adapter coupling element 26 and hose side reduced sleeve portion 7 "of the coupling sleeve. 7 produced.

In einer bevorzugten Ausführungsvariante der Erfindung weist die Kupplungseinrichtung 4 ein Anschlussadapterelement 19 auf, über welches zumindest die Zuführung der Fluida in die ersten Fluidkanäle 10 des einen Ventilkolben bildenden ersten Kupplungskörpers 8 erfolgt. In den Figuren 2 bis 7 ist beispielhaft eine mögliche Realisierungsform eines derartigen Anschlussadapterelementes 19 dargestellt.In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the coupling device 4 has a connection adapter element 19 via which at least the supply of the fluids into the first fluid channels 10 of the first coupling body 8 forming a valve piston takes place. In the FIGS. 2 to 7 an example of a possible realization of such a connection adapter element 19 is shown by way of example.

Bei der vorliegenden Ausführungsvariante weist das Anschlussadapterelement 19 drei senkrecht zur Längsachse LA verlaufenden Durchführungskanäle 28, an deren gegenüberliegenden Öffnungen jeweils Anschlussnippel 30, 30' zumindestteilweise aufgenommen sind. Die senkrecht zur Längsachse LA verlaufenden Durchführungskanäle 28 sind jeweils mit parallel zur Längsachse LA verlaufenden Zuführungskanälen 29 verbunden, welche zur Verbindung mit den Verbindungsnippelelementen 20 des ersten Kupplungskörpers 8 achs- und positionsgleich zu den ersten Fluidkanälen 10 angeordnet sind.In the present embodiment variant, the connection adapter element 19 has three feedthrough channels 28 extending perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis LA, at whose opposite openings in each case connection nipples 30, 30 'are at least partially received. The feedthrough channels 28, which run perpendicular to the longitudinal axis LA, are each connected to feed channels 29 extending parallel to the longitudinal axis LA, which are arranged in the same position and in the same position as the first fluid channels 10 for connection to the connecting nipple elements 20 of the first coupling body 8.

Über die Durchführungskanäle 28 werden beispielsweise die Fluida Wasser, Antriebs- und Blasluft an die Zuführungskanäle 29 geführt, wobei hierbei vorzugsweise im Bereich der Kreuzungspunkte der Durchführungs- und Zuführungskanäle 28, 29 jeweils Dosiermittel 31 vorgesehen sein können, über welche die Zuführmenge der jeweils zuführbaren Fluida einstellbar ist.Via the feedthrough channels 28, for example, the fluids water, drive and blown air are fed to the feed channels 29, wherein in this case preferably in the region of the crossing points of the feedthrough and feed channels 28, 29 each metering 31 may be provided, via which the supply of each feedable fluids is adjustable.

Schließlich verfügt das Anschlussadapterelement 19 noch über einen Auslassnippel 32, welcher über einen weiteren Zuführungskanal (nicht in den Figuren dargestellt) mit dem im ersten Kupplungskörper 8 vorgesehenen weiteren Fluidkanal verbindbar ist.Finally, the connection adapter element 19 also has an outlet nipple 32 which can be connected via a further supply channel (not shown in the figures) to the further fluid channel provided in the first coupling body 8.

Das Anschlussadapterelement 19 ist vorzugsweise fest mit der steuerseitigen Stirnseite des ersten Kupplungskörpers 8 verbunden, und zwar vorzugsweise mittels lösbaren Verbindungsmitteln wie beispielsweise Schrauben 33.The connection adapter element 19 is preferably fixedly connected to the control-side end side of the first coupling body 8, preferably by means of releasable connection means such as screws 33.

Die Erfindung wurde voranstehend an einem Ausführungsbeispiel beschrieben. Es versteht sich, dass zahlreiche Modifikationen und Änderungen der Erfindung möglich sind, ohne dass hierdurch der Erfindungsgedanke verlassen wird.The invention has been described above by means of an embodiment. It is understood that numerous modifications and variations of the invention are possible without departing from the inventive concept.

BezugszeichenlisteLIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

11
zahnmedizinische Vorrichtungdental device
22
Versorgungs- und SteuereinheitSupply and control unit
33
fahrbarer Wagenmobile cart
44
Kupplungsvorrichtungcoupling device
4'4 '
steuerseitiger Anschlussbereichcontrol-side connection area
4"4 '
schlauchseitiger Anschlussbereichhose-side connection area
55
zahnärztliches Instrumentdental instrument
66
Versorgungsschlauchsupply hose
77
Kupplungsmuffecoupling sleeve
7'7 '
Randbereichborder area
7"7 "
reduzierter Muffenbereichreduced sleeve area
7.17.1
erster Kupplungsmuffenabschnittfirst coupling sleeve section
7.27.2
zweiter Kupplungsmuffenabschnittsecond coupling sleeve section
7.37.3
ringförmige Anschlagflächeannular stop surface
88th
erster Kupplungskörperfirst coupling body
8.18.1
erster Kupplungskörperabschnittfirst coupling body portion
8.118.11
Führungsnutguide
8.28.2
zweiter Kupplungskörperabschnittsecond coupling body portion
8.218.21
Führungsnutguide
8.38.3
äußere umlaufende Nutouter circumferential groove
8.48.4
ringförmige Anschlagflächeannular stop surface
99
zweiter Kupplungskörpersecond coupling body
9.19.1
erster Kupplungskörperabschnittfirst coupling body portion
9.29.2
zweiter Kupplungskörperabschnittsecond coupling body portion
1010
erste Fluidkanälefirst fluid channels
10.110.1
erster Kanalabschnittfirst channel section
10.210.2
zweiter Kanalabschnittsecond channel section
1111
erste elektrische Steckverbindungenfirst electrical connections
1212
zweite Fluidkanälesecond fluid channels
1313
zweite elektrische Steckverbindungensecond electrical connections
1414
ringförmiger Ventilraumannular valve space
1515
Bohrungdrilling
1616
Doppelnippelnipples
1717
stabförmige Ventilkolbenrod-shaped valve piston
17.117.1
erster Ventilkolbenabschnittfirst valve piston section
17.217.2
zweiter Ventilkolbenabschnittsecond valve piston section
1818
Zulaufbohrunginlet bore
1919
AnschlussadapterelementPort adapter element
2020
VerbindungsnippelelementeConnecting nipple elements
2121
VerbindungsnippelelementeConnecting nipple elements
2222
erste Bohrungenfirst holes
2323
zweite Bohrungensecond holes
2424
KontaktstiftelementMale connector member
2525
KontaktbuchselementContact book element
2626
AdapterkupplungselementAdapter coupling element
2727
Mutterelementnut element
27'27 '
Randbereichborder area
2828
DurchführungskanäleThrough-channels
2929
Zuführungskanälesupply channels
30, 30'30, 30 '
Anschlussnippelnipple
3131
Dosiermitteldosing
3232
Auslassnippeloutlet nipple
3333
Schraubenscrew
3434
Befestigungshülsemounting sleeve
LALA
Längsachselongitudinal axis

Claims (14)

  1. Coupling device (4) for connecting a supply hose (6) for dental instruments (5) with a supply and control unit (2), comprising a coupling sleeve (7) in which at least partly a first coupling body (8) and a second coupling body (9) are received along the longitudinal axis (LA) of the coupling sleeve (7), wherein the first and second coupling bodies (8, 9) each have several fluid channels and electrical plug-type connections, wherein the coupling device (4) is designed in the form of a switchable valve coupling, characterised in that the first coupling body (8) forms a valve piston body guided in the coupling sleeve (7) which can be axially displaced by application of compressed air.
  2. Coupling device according to claim 1 characterised in that the second coupling body (9) is fixedly received in the coupling sleeve (7).
  3. Coupling device according to claim 1 or 2 characterised in that provided in the first coupling body (8) are first fluid channels (10) and provided in the second coupling body (9) are second fluid channels (12) which respectively extend coaxially to each other along the longitudinal axes (LA) of the coupling bodies (8, 9) and/or in that a rod-shaped valve piston (17) with a first and second valve piston section (17.1, 17.2) is received in sections in each of the first and second fluid channels (10, 12).
  4. Coupling device according to any one of claims 1 to 3 characterised in that in a non-interconnected operating mode of the coupling device (4), the first coupling body (8) is arranged at a distance from the second coupling body (9) in the coupling sleeve (7), wherein the first coupling body (8) is held in this position by application of a pretensioning force.
  5. Coupling device according to claim 3 or 4 characterised in that provided in a wall on the control side of the coupling sleeve (7) is a boring (15) for supplying compressed air or control air into an annual valve chamber (14) enclosed by the coupling sleeve (7) and the first coupling body (8), said boring extending along the longitudinal axis (LA) from the end face of the coupling sleeve (7) on the control side to the annular valve chamber (14) and/or in that the rod-shaped valve piston (17) has an inner boring which extends along the longitudinal axis of the piston, namely starting from an inlet boring (18) extending transversely to the longitudinal axis of the piston with two opposite inlet openings and an outlet opening at the end face.
  6. Coupling device according to claim 5 characterised in that the first valve piston section (17.1) having the two lateral inlet openings is at least partially received in a fluid channel (10) of the first coupling body (8) and the second valve piston section (17.2) having the outlet opening at the end face is at least partially received in the coaxially arranged fluid channel (12) of the second coupling body (9) and/or in that depending on the piston position of the first coupling body (8) designed as a valve piston body, the inlet openings of the first valve piston section (17.1) are cleared or closed in a fluid-tight manner.
  7. Coupling device according to claim 6 characterised in that the first fluid channels (10) provided in the first coupling body (8) each have a first channel section (10.1) and immediately adjoining this a second channel section (10.2), wherein the inner diameter of the first channel section (10.1) is selected to be larger than the inner diameter of the second channel section (10.2) and/or in that in the non-interconnected operating mode the inlet openings of the first valve piston section (17.1) are each located in the area of the second channel section (10.2) and are closed therewith.
  8. Coupling device according to any one of claims 6 or 7 characterised in that in the interconnected operating mode the inlet openings of the first valve piston section (17.1) are located in the area of the first channel section (10.1) and are cleared therewith and/or in that the rod-shaped valve piston (17) is held with its second valve piston section (17.2) fixed in position in the respective second fluid channel (12) of the second coupling body (9).
  9. Coupling device according to any one of claims 1 to 8 characterised in that for establishing the electrical plug connections (11, 13), the first and second coupling body (8, 9) have first and second borings (22, 23), also coaxially arranged, running in parallel to the first and second fluid channels (10, 12), wherein in each case in the first boring (22) a contact pin element (24) and in the opposite coaxial second boring (23) a contact socket element (25) are arranged.
  10. Coupling device according to any one of claims 1 to 9 characterised in that the second coupling body (9) has a first and a second coupling body section (9.1, 9.2) with different outer diameters, wherein the outer diameter of the first coupling body section (9.1) is larger than that of the second coupling body section (9.2) and wherein the first coupling body section (9.1) is guided in the coupling sleeve (7).
  11. Coupling device according to any one of claims 1 to 10 characterised in that a hose-side adapter coupling element (26) adjoins the second coupling body (9) on the hose side and is part of the supply hose (6) and/or in that the coupling sleeve (7) has a circumferential edge section (7') and, adjoining this, a sleeve section (7") reduced in cross-section, which on the outer surface has a screw thread onto which a nut element (27) can be screwed, wherein on the nut element (27) along the longitudinal axis (LA) in the direction of the hose-side connection area (4") a fastening sleeve (34) is connected which can also be screwed onto the outer thread of the coupling sleeve (7).
  12. Coupling device according to any one of claims 1 to 11 characterised by a connection adapter element (19) arranged on the control side, via which at least the supply of the fluids into the first fluid channels (10) of the first coupling section (8) forming a valve piston takes place, wherein the connection adapter element (19) has transfer channels (28) which run perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis (LA) and are each connected to supply channels (29) running in parallel to the longitudinal axis (LA) which are arranged coaxially to and in the same position as the first fluid channels (10) of the first coupling body (8).
  13. Coupling body according to claim 12 characterised in that in the area of the crossing points of the transfer and supply channels (28, 29) dosing means (31) are provided in each case via which the quantity of the respective fluid being supplied can be adjusted.
  14. Coupling device according to any one of claims 1 to 13 characterised in that at least three first fluid channels (10) are provided in the first coupling body (8) and at least three second fluid channels (12) are provided in the second coupling body (9) for transferring water, actuating air and blowing air through the coupling device (4).
EP13176856.6A 2012-07-23 2013-07-17 Coupling device for connecting a supply hose for dental instruments with a supply and control unit Active EP2689741B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE102012106666.3A DE102012106666B4 (en) 2012-07-23 2012-07-23 Coupling device for connecting a supply hose for dental instruments with a supply and control unit

Publications (3)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP2689741A2 EP2689741A2 (en) 2014-01-29
EP2689741A3 EP2689741A3 (en) 2014-11-12
EP2689741B1 true EP2689741B1 (en) 2017-01-04

Family

ID=48795448

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP13176856.6A Active EP2689741B1 (en) 2012-07-23 2013-07-17 Coupling device for connecting a supply hose for dental instruments with a supply and control unit

Country Status (4)

Country Link
US (1) US9188265B2 (en)
EP (1) EP2689741B1 (en)
JP (1) JP5748077B2 (en)
DE (1) DE102012106666B4 (en)

Families Citing this family (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP3324875B1 (en) * 2016-06-22 2018-11-28 Kaltenbach & Voigt GmbH Dental treatment and/or examination assembly, dental coupling unit and method for rinsing the liquid pumping system of a dental treatment and/or examination assembly

Family Cites Families (28)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2542536A (en) * 1945-08-06 1951-02-20 Amos H Kirksey Combined pipe and electric coupling
US2510125A (en) * 1946-07-30 1950-06-06 Lawrence W Meakin Connector for fluid or electrical lines or both
US2634311A (en) * 1950-01-31 1953-04-07 Ralph E Darling Composite fluid and electrical connector
US3032299A (en) * 1957-03-11 1962-05-01 Martin James Multiservice connector devices for the occupants of aircraft
US3254646A (en) * 1962-08-20 1966-06-07 American Hospital Supply Corp Dental syringes
DE2549177C3 (en) * 1975-11-03 1985-10-03 Siemens AG, 1000 Berlin und 8000 München Coupling device for dental handpieces
DE2730713A1 (en) * 1977-07-07 1979-01-11 Emda COUPLING ARRANGEMENT FOR OPTIONAL CONNECTING DENTAL INSTRUMENTS TO ONE OR MORE COMMON FLUID LINES
EP0034237B1 (en) * 1980-02-18 1994-01-26 Bien-Air, D. Mosimann Dental instrument with handpiece
JPS5839695Y2 (en) * 1980-07-14 1983-09-07 有限会社中西歯科器械製作所 optical handpiece
US4431412A (en) * 1981-03-30 1984-02-14 Lares Mfg. Co., Inc. Dental handpiece
DE3119689A1 (en) * 1981-05-18 1982-12-02 Kaltenbach & Voigt Gmbh & Co, 7950 Biberach DENTAL HANDPIECE WITH ITS OWN ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCE
JPS63255055A (en) * 1987-04-13 1988-10-21 株式会社　吉田製作所 Dental treatment auxiliary apparatus
US4957483A (en) * 1988-10-21 1990-09-18 Den-Tal-Ez, Inc. Sterilizable syringe
BR9000816A (en) * 1989-02-27 1991-02-05 Saxon Air Controls Inc DENTAL MANUAL PIECE CONTROL DEVICE, AND PORTABLE DENTAL MANUAL PIECE CONTROL SET
JPH0620492Y2 (en) * 1990-12-18 1994-06-01 株式会社日向和田精密製作所 Internal contamination prevention device for handpiece
FR2708193B1 (en) * 1993-06-29 1996-07-05 Satelec Sa Surgical instrument, intended in particular for dental surgery.
US5501596A (en) * 1994-07-27 1996-03-26 Young Dental Manufacturing Company, Inc. Autoclavable dental scaler handpiece
US5603352A (en) * 1994-11-21 1997-02-18 C. Valves Ltd. Fluid flow control device including multiple valve units
DE19613681C2 (en) * 1996-04-05 2001-06-13 Otto Rosenstatter Dental handpiece
US5944520A (en) * 1996-08-29 1999-08-31 Ash; Albert Dental hand piece with internal back flow prevention valve
AU2273000A (en) * 2000-01-27 2001-08-07 Claude Lachapelle Water valve for dental handpiece
US20020117849A1 (en) * 2001-02-26 2002-08-29 Young Dental Manufacturing Company Swivel connector for dental and medical handpieces
US7658205B1 (en) * 2002-12-19 2010-02-09 Vitalwear, Inc. Systems for a fluid circuit coupler
AT412322B (en) * 2002-12-20 2005-01-25 W & H Dentalwerk Buermoos Gmbh QUICK COUPLING FOR CONNECTING DEVICES OF A MEDICAL OR SURGICAL HAND-PARTICLE SYSTEM WITH A SUPPLY TUBE
JP3802885B2 (en) * 2003-06-10 2006-07-26 株式会社ナカニシ Fluid supply connector
US8517731B2 (en) * 2004-05-28 2013-08-27 Bien-Air Holding Sa Pipe and universal coupling for supplying instruments for dental or surgical use
CA2609451C (en) * 2005-05-25 2014-05-20 Synthes Gmbh Device for controlled operation of a surgical or dental drive unit
DE102006051511A1 (en) * 2006-10-31 2008-05-08 Kaltenbach & Voigt Gmbh Coupling between a medical handpiece part and a supply hose

Non-Patent Citations (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Title
None *

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
US20140021716A1 (en) 2014-01-23
JP5748077B2 (en) 2015-07-15
JP2014018672A (en) 2014-02-03
US9188265B2 (en) 2015-11-17
EP2689741A2 (en) 2014-01-29
EP2689741A3 (en) 2014-11-12
DE102012106666B4 (en) 2017-06-01
DE102012106666A1 (en) 2014-05-15

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
DE3215207C2 (en)
DE3250106C2 (en) Spray nozzle, in particular for deicing aircraft
EP1448925B1 (en) Connector piece, fluid line and hydraulic device
EP2781664B1 (en) Sanitary fitting with internal hose assembly
EP2226432B1 (en) Connection block for sanitary fittings
EP1361382B1 (en) Valve assembly for controlling material flow in a coating plant
EP1332313B1 (en) Connector piece for flexible plastic conduits, comprising a sensor assembly
EP1317021B1 (en) Connector, fluid conductor and fluidic installation
EP1900337B1 (en) Medical or dental tool holder with a front and rear tool holder apron
EP2139608B1 (en) Spray gun line connection device
DE10054561A1 (en) Valve-controlled fluidic actuator arrangement
DE3015830C2 (en)
EP2689741B1 (en) Coupling device for connecting a supply hose for dental instruments with a supply and control unit
EP0080591A1 (en) Connecting device for sanitary installations with a flexible conduit and joining pieces on both ends
EP2808052B1 (en) Coupling device for connecting hoses, in particular dental supply hoses
EP3875056B1 (en) Method and system for the treatment and / or care of a medical or dental instrument
DE3707705A1 (en) Discharge fitting
EP2674652B1 (en) Valve assembly with pinch valves
DE102016215156A1 (en) Fluid controller
DE102012112701B4 (en) Device for the controlled supply of compressed air to at least one pneumatically operated dental instrument
DE102006017077B4 (en) Device for applying a greasing agent to a workpiece surface
DE102011003864B4 (en) Use for the water outlet from a sanitary fitting
EP2420195A1 (en) Device for the fluid-conveying connection of at least one application probe with a supply tubing set, and handle for a surgical instrument
EP4030088A1 (en) Clutch for a compressed air motor
DE19644978B4 (en) Line coupling for two line sections of a pressure line for a medical or dental device

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
PUAI Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: A2

Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR

AX Request for extension of the european patent

Extension state: BA ME

PUAL Search report despatched

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009013

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: A3

Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR

AX Request for extension of the european patent

Extension state: BA ME

RIC1 Information provided on ipc code assigned before grant

Ipc: A61C 1/00 20060101ALI20141003BHEP

Ipc: A61C 1/18 20060101AFI20141003BHEP

Ipc: F16L 25/12 20060101ALI20141003BHEP

17P Request for examination filed

Effective date: 20150421

RBV Designated contracting states (corrected)

Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR

RAP1 Party data changed (applicant data changed or rights of an application transferred)

Owner name: MEDTRONIC MEDIZINISCH-ELEKTRONISCHE GERAETEGESELLS

GRAP Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR1

INTG Intention to grant announced

Effective date: 20160805

GRAS Grant fee paid

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR3

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: GRANT OF PATENT IS INTENDED

GRAA (expected) grant

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009210

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: THE PATENT HAS BEEN GRANTED

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: B1

Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: GB

Ref legal event code: FG4D

Free format text: NOT ENGLISH

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: EP

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: AT

Ref legal event code: REF

Ref document number: 858467

Country of ref document: AT

Kind code of ref document: T

Effective date: 20170115

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: IE

Ref legal event code: FG4D

Free format text: LANGUAGE OF EP DOCUMENT: GERMAN

RAP2 Party data changed (patent owner data changed or rights of a patent transferred)

Owner name: MEDTRONIC MEDIZINISCH-ELEKTRONISCHE GERAETE-GESELL

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R096

Ref document number: 502013005961

Country of ref document: DE

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: LT

Ref legal event code: MG4D

Ref country code: NL

Ref legal event code: MP

Effective date: 20170104

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: NL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170104

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: FR

Ref legal event code: PLFP

Year of fee payment: 5

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: LT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170104

Ref country code: NO

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170404

Ref country code: FI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170104

Ref country code: IS

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170504

Ref country code: HR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170104

Ref country code: GR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170405

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: PT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170504

Ref country code: RS

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170104

Ref country code: LV

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170104

Ref country code: SE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170104

Ref country code: PL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170104

Ref country code: ES

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170104

Ref country code: BG

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170404

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R097

Ref document number: 502013005961

Country of ref document: DE

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: IT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170104

Ref country code: CZ

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170104

Ref country code: SK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170104

Ref country code: RO

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170104

Ref country code: EE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170104

PLBE No opposition filed within time limit

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009261

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: NO OPPOSITION FILED WITHIN TIME LIMIT

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: SM

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170104

Ref country code: DK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170104

26N No opposition filed

Effective date: 20171005

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: SI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170104

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: PL

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: IE

Ref legal event code: MM4A

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: LI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20170731

Ref country code: IE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20170717

Ref country code: CH

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20170731

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: BE

Ref legal event code: MM

Effective date: 20170731

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: LU

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20170717

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: FR

Ref legal event code: PLFP

Year of fee payment: 6

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: BE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20170731

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: MT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170104

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: MC

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170104

Ref country code: HU

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT; INVALID AB INITIO

Effective date: 20130717

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: AT

Ref legal event code: MM01

Ref document number: 858467

Country of ref document: AT

Kind code of ref document: T

Effective date: 20180717

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: CY

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20170104

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: MK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170104

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: AT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20180717

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: TR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170104

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: AL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170104

P01 Opt-out of the competence of the unified patent court (upc) registered

Effective date: 20230510

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R082

Ref document number: 502013005961

Country of ref document: DE

Representative=s name: WUESTHOFF & WUESTHOFF, PATENTANWAELTE PARTG MB, DE

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R082

Ref document number: 502013005961

Country of ref document: DE

Representative=s name: WUESTHOFF & WUESTHOFF PATENTANWAELTE UND RECHT, DE

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: GB

Payment date: 20230720

Year of fee payment: 11

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: FR

Payment date: 20230725

Year of fee payment: 11

Ref country code: DE

Payment date: 20230731

Year of fee payment: 11